Astell & Kern A&Ultima SP2000 (Copper)

” Actually, it could be the best portable music player we’ve heard full stop.” ’What Hi-Fi?’ – 5 Star review.

Independent Balanced and unbalanced circuits
The A&ultima SP2000 is the first A&K player to use separate, independent audio channels for Balanced and unbalanced outputs. Separate outputs deliver improved signal to noise ratio through reduced distortion. The increased output also means you get more music at lower volumes, making it sound more natural and lifelike than ever.

DAC upgrade
Fitted with the latest AKM AK4499EQ DACs, this flagship player produces incredible detail and resolution. For the highest performance, the SP2000 uses twin DACs – just like in full-size, reference digital playback devices. By using one DAC for the left channel and another for the right, the SP2000 offers channel precision and stereo imaging that’s well beyond most rivals.

The first A&K with support for native 32/768 and DSD512 files
The SP2000 is the first A&K player to support native 32-bit/768 kHz and DSD512 music files. Native support means no conversion or compression involved - you simply get to hear every ounce of detail. Combined with the hugely capable DAC, this means sensational dynamic range, low noise and incredible detail from your top quality digital music files.

MQA playback
Compatible with Meridian's MQA (Master Quality Authenticated) technology, the SP2000 offers the choice of using this ingenious system to save on storage space. Although studio master quality, the beauty of MQA is that files are small enough to easily stream and they don't take up so much space – giving the best of both worlds.

Dual Band wi-fi
With streaming music becoming more popular, A&K have fitted the SP2000 with powerful, dual band wi-fi. Combined with a 3-dimensional antenna band, the dual band wi-fi effortlessly pulls in the signal, reducing the chances of dropouts – especially with higher resolution music files.

Install the music apps you want
Using the improved Open APP service, you can install the music apps you want on the player. These include favourites such as Spotify, Deezer, Amazon Prime Music and TuneIn Internet radio.

Double the memory – with 512GB built-in
With a mighty 512GB of internal memory, the SP2000 offers twice the storage space of the already impressive SP1000 model. This is ample for a substantial HiRes music library but can be extended still further, right up to an amazing 1.5TB, with an optional 1TB microSD memory card. Taken together, 1.5TB is around 2100 CDs or 24,000 tracks at FLAC quality.

Flawless user interface and display
Just like the SP1000, the improved SP2000 delivers a fantastic user experience. Integrating the power button with the multi-function wheel gives easier control for faster access to your music. The HD 5-inch screen is bezel-less to maximize screen size on this tiny player. Song and player information is sharp, colourful and easy to read on the large and bright screen.

Sleek design with stainless steel or copper chassis
Reflecting the quality of the components inside, the SP2000 encases them in a choice of stainless steel or copper chassis. Both finishes look stunning and are tough enough to protect the hi-tech internals.

With the Astell & Kern A&ultima SP2000, a new reference has arrived.